Summer Skincare

THE LURE OF THE SUN, sea and sand is irresistible. To fully enjoy your holiday, however, remember to protect your skin from the elements, especially when traveling to a tropical country like the Philippines. Summer temperatures can soar to 32 degree Celsius and the sweltering heat may cause a lot of damage to the skin.

While the sun can give a glorious tan and helps in the synthesis of vitamin D, it can also cause burns, aging, wrinkling, and abnormalities in the immune system. It can cause or aggravate nearly 40 human diseases and skin cancers. People who have pale skin, red hair and blue eyes can suffer burns with sun exposure and are especially at risk. Darker-skinned people though are not immune from the damaging effects of ultraviolet rays.

HERE ARE SOME SKIN CARE TIPS FOR THIS SUMMER:

Stay away from the sun between 10AM to 2PM. The sun's rays are fiercest during this period.

Use sunblock. Sunblock should have at least an SPF (sun protection factor) rating of 15. Check the bottle of sunblock to find its SPF rating. Apply sunblock 30 minutes before sun exposure to allow proper skin absorption. Apply it liberally and frequently since perspiration and swimming can remove sunblock.

Bouncing rays. Even if you are under a shade, the UV rays bouncing off from the ground (or the water or sand) can still damage your skin. So keep that sunblock on even when you're out of the water. Use protective clothing like wide-brimmed hats, dark-colored umbrellas, long sleeved clothing and sunglasses.

Water hazards. Don't say too long in the water - skin becomes macerated and prone to injury. Two water hazards to be avoided are a)pollution b) parasites and other creatures that could sting, bite or infect skin. These include jellyfish and sea anemone larvae that may give rise to rashes called "swimmer's itch" and "seabather's eruption". Watch out for corals that may cut your skin.

Most skin eruptions resulting from contact with these creatures may heal on their own, but can be uncomfortable or painful. First aid for such eruptions include topical steroids and antihistamines (available in ointment or cream form). In case of jellyfish stings, apply vinegar on the affected area and call the resort/hotel doctor.

More serious are bacterial infections from swimming pools, hot tubs and whirlpools or jacuzzis. Infections may appear as itchy red rashes or "papules" (raised red dots) on skin. Avoid this by using only facilities in resorts that have a reputation for by using only facilities in resorts that have a reputation for cleanliness and hygiene. Most infections disappear spontaeously but others may require a course of antibiotics. If itching, eruptions and redness persist after 2-3 days, consult a dermatologist.

The hair, an extension of our skin, may be damaged by the copper content of pool water, turning hair into a greenish color. Treat this with hot vegetable oil, hydrogen peroxide, edetic acid or penicillamine shampoo.

No sweat. This summer, wear light "breathable" fabrics. Excess sweat on the skin creates an ideal environment for bacterial and fungal growth. This is why boils and fungal infections are prevalent during summer. Areas of the body like the groin, feet, armpits, and legs must be kept dry to avoid such infections.

Prickly heat. This is caused by repeated sweating in a hot, humid environment and is common to people who are not used with the warm climate. It usually subsides within a day after the person moves to a cooler environment. Mild topical steroids may also provide relief. Avoid prickly heat by wearing lightweight fabrics like cotton and linen, which allow the skin to "breathe".

So, when you head off to that pristine island, white sand beach or fabulous resort, have fun but remember to also keep your skin safe!